Salomon Speedcross 6

The legendary Speedcross line turns 20 and keeps its status as a trail icon, a shoe that stands as a benchmark and that runners recommend to each other without a second thought. This Salomon Speedcross 6 is lighter than its predecessor but keeps the durability that made it famous. Perfect for training and fast races on tricky early-season trails, with big lugs and a tough upper. That said, its limited breathability and modest grip on dry ground reduce its versatility.

The upper uses an anti-abrasion mesh that is denser than in previous versions, with better breathability and abrasion resistance. The Sensifit™ system provides a precise fit that is fine-tuned with Quicklace™. The excess lace is stored in the elastic pocket on the tongue, which is gusseted to keep out mud and little stones. A reinforced toe bumper and an antibacterial OrthoLite® insole round off a very well-equipped package.

The midsole offers a generous stack height with the brand's classic 10 mm drop. The not very numerous but extremely effective lugs on the Contagrip® outsole deliver great grip in mud and shed it better than the previous version. It is agile and responsive on fast bends, although the midsole (made of EnergyCell+, with the marketing team running out of names once again) feels firm, perhaps a little less hard than in previous editions. Ideal for heel strikers who put traction on soft ground ahead of versatility. For stability on dry terrain, better to look at the La Sportiva Bushido 3 or the Saucony Peregrine 16. As usual, there is a waterproof version (with the ubiquitous Gore-Tex™) and also a wider-fit version for those who find it too narrow for their feet. There is also a range of colours to suit every taste, so nobody misses out.